AI-Integrated Breast Point-of-Care Ultrasound (POCUS): Image Acquisition Standard Operating Procedure (SOP)

Abstract

This Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) outlines a standardized workflow for performing bilateral breast point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) examinations in an outpatient clinical setting. The purpose of the SOP is to reduce procedural variability, promote consistent high-quality imaging, and support patient safety during breast ultrasound screening. The protocol is intended for clinicians and trainees with foundational knowledge of ultrasound physics and breast anatomy who are working under appropriate supervision. Examinations are performed using the Butterfly iQ3 probe paired with the Butterfly App on a 10th-generation Apple iPad, selected for its portability, ease of use, and imaging performance comparable to conventional ultrasound systems. Real-time images are displayed through the app interface via USB-C connection, enabling efficient acquisition and review during scanning. This SOP provides a structured framework to guide breast POCUS acquisition and support evaluation of AI-assisted feasibility for breast ultrasound screening.